Hi. My best friend had a transplant, recieved from her hubby, two years ago. She is thinking of getting a tattoo but is unsure if she can or not. Anyone out there know of anyone who got a kidney and had one without ill effects? Or of anyone who suffered from it? Any advice will help her make the decision - doctors didn't offer much in the line of advice.

People with transplants are usually on immunosuppressive drugs -- drugs that lessen the ability to fight infection. The risk, in general, of getting AIDS, hepatitis, etc,from a tattoo is pretty much nil unless done by someone who doesn't follow the established sterility practices. However, tattooing can introduce skin bugs into the circulation which could be more dangerous for someone on immunosuppresion. It sounds like an unnecessary risk; if she thinks she can't do without, she should ask her nephrologist. But I'd say, think henna!

I had a kidney transplant about 18 months ago.I was also interested In having a tattoo done on my forearm.
But before I went ahead, I spoke to my consultant, He put up a very persuasive argument against having one done.
All he had to say to me was four letters, MRSA that was enough for me to reconsider. I changed my mind pretty damn quick.
While on dialysis I contracted this through an open wound,It nearly killed me,I was not prepared to go through that again.
MRSA Is mainly contracted In hospitals and If like me your friend has to go for check ups on a regular basis there Is always the possiblity especially with a wound you could contract It. It Is not worth the grief..
you can catch this from anyone whos a carrier
And thats without any number of ways of getting Infected.

It Is not worth putting yourself or your new kidney at risk.
Unless of course you want to go back on dialysis,
I know as sure as hell I Don't.
But Its your life !!.

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